Why is emotional intelligence important in young adults?
The growing need for emotional intelligence in young adults
Emotional intelligence (EI) encompasses several facets: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. These are qualities that employers value highly. They play a pivotal role in professional and personal development. As such, they have become essential skills for young adults to develop in their late teens and early twenties. This is especially important as they complete their tertiary education and launch their careers. Once young adults are active in the world of work, these skills become even more critical. They help young adults keep pace with rapid technological advancements. They support adapting to shifting workplace expectations and evolving social dynamics. In an era where adaptability and collaboration are highly valued, emotional intelligence offers a clear advantage. Young adults with strong EI are more likely to build meaningful relationships and collaborate effectively. They can also innovate, resolve conflicts, and show resilience in the face of adversity.
Factors affecting the emotional intelligence of today’s youth
According to key findings in the 2024 State of the Heart report – the world’s largest study of emotional intelligence, Gen Z faces a mental and emotional health crisis fueled by loneliness and social isolation. The development of emotional intelligence in today’s young adults has been shaped by an interesting mix of external and internal factors. These include:
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Societal changes:
Shifts in family structures, such as the increased rate of single-parent families and working parents, can impact the amount of time and attention children receive, potentially affecting their emotional development.
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Isolation during Covid:
The impact of being in lockdown during the Covid pandemic, during what would have otherwise been a very social time of life, put a stop to face-to-face communication and socialising.
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The rise of digital media:
The world turning increasingly digital has increased remote interaction and has done away with many opportunities for young adults to develop crucial social and communications skills. Today, many young people struggle with managing their emotions in a real-world setting due to their reliance on digital communication.
Read our blog, Vital skills young people need for a successful future.
The role of emotional intelligence in future workplaces
As workplaces evolve to embrace automation, AI, remote work, and advanced digital tools, emotional intelligence becomes a vital asset. Unlike technical skills, which can often be automated or outsourced, EI is a uniquely human quality. It distinguishes individuals in leadership, collaboration, and teamwork. Employers are increasingly hiring and promoting those who can collaborate well, adapt to change, and show empathy in interactions. Thriving in the future workplace will require strong interpersonal skills.
These skills support innovation, navigating complex dynamics, and protecting mental well-being. Emotional intelligence will be essential for conflict resolution, negotiation, and leadership roles. Companies want people who can lead diverse teams and create a positive, inclusive culture. They will continue to favour employees with emotional resilience, strong communication skills, and the ability to manage stress constructively.
How to prepare young adults for the workplace of the future
To develop emotional intelligence in young adults, it is essential to integrate EI development into education, training, and everyday experiences.
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Schools and universities
should focus not only on academic excellence but also on cultivating emotional and social intelligence through structured programmes, such as mindfulness training, conflict resolution workshops, and peer mentorship initiatives.
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Parents and educators
should encourage open conversations about emotions and stress management and provide resilience-building strategies. Young adults should be exposed to real-life experiences that challenge them to develop empathy and adaptability, such as volunteering, getting involved in team activities, and joining cultural exchange programmes.
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Employers
can contribute by offering workplace mentorship, mental health resources, and leadership training that prioritise emotional well-being alongside professional growth.
To effectively prepare young adults for the workplace of the future, it is essential to actively focus on developing their emotional intelligence through targeted strategies. Here are 8 strategies that can prepare young adults for the workplace of the future:
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Encourage self-awareness
Teach young adults to recognise their emotions, triggers, and behavioral patterns through reflective practices like journaling and mindfulness.
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Develop empathy
Engage them in activities that promote understanding of different perspectives, such as volunteering, mentoring, and cross-cultural interactions.
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Enhance communication skills
Offer training in active listening, conflict resolution, and effective workplace communication to build stronger professional relationships.
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Cultivate resilience and adaptability
Expose them to real-world challenges that require problem-solving, critical thinking, and emotional regulation.
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Integrate emotional intelligence in education
Teach young adults how to balance digital and face-to-face interactions to maintain strong emotional intelligence in a tech-driven world. Include courses and workshops focused on emotional intelligence development in colleges, universities, and professional training programmes.
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Promote mental health and well-being
Encourage stress management techniques, self-care practices, and provide access to mental health resources.
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Provide leadership and teamwork opportunities
Encourage participation in group projects, leadership roles, and team-based initiatives to strengthen collaboration and interpersonal skills.
Read our blog, 5 Ways to prepare yourself for your future career.
In conclusion:
For today’s young adults, emotional intelligence is no longer an optional soft skill but an essential component of success. As the world continues to evolve, those who develop high emotional intelligence will be better positioned to navigate challenges, form meaningful connections, and excel at work. By acknowledging the factors affecting emotional intelligence and implementing strategies to enhance it, parents, educators, and employers can better prepare young adults to thrive in both their personal and professional lives. Investing in emotional intelligence today will shape a more resilient, empathetic, and successful generation for the future.
Over to you for sharing your comments and experiences.
About the Author: Kerstin Jatho
Kerstin is the senior transformational coach and team development facilitator for 4Seeds Consulting. She is also the author of Growing Butterfly Wings, a book on applying positive psychology principles during a lengthy recovery. Her passion is to develop people-centred organisations where people thrive and achieve their potential in the workplace. You can find Kerstin on LinkedIn, Soundcloud, YouTube and Facebook.
